For the second time this week, quarterback Chris Chandler was not available to speak to the media Thursday. That gave rise to questions heading into Sunday night’s game against Tampa Bay and its top-ranked defense:
Is Chandler, who was knocked senseless with a concussion Sunday at Carolina, completely over the injury? And should he play in a game that is meaningless to the Bears, even though team doctors have cleared him to practice?
On Nov. 10, Chandler sustained a severe neck strain after a blow to the head against New England. It left him shaken and dazed, with all the symptoms of a concussion. Sunday’s concussion then would be Chandler’s second this season, a warning sign to those familiar with the potential consequences of brain injuries.
“He could be brain dead,” said Glen Kozlowski, who had concussions during his playing days as a Bear and is good friends with ex-49ers quarterback Steve Young, who left the game with a history of concussions. “Honestly, you could be scrambled for life. I can’t believe he even would consider it.
“I guess the doctors would know better, but rule of thumb, two in one year, you don’t put the guy back out there, especially against Tampa Bay. They are better with him out there but how do you risk that?”
Chandler has failed to finish four of his seven starts this season, three times because of injury.
Offensive coordinator John Shoop acknowledged concern for Chandler but said the decision was not his, but Chandler’s and the doctors’.
“Anytime you coach guys and you’re around them that much, you certainly invest feelings in them,” Shoop said.
“I want what’s best for Chris and all of our players. But it’s a doctor’s decision and Chris’ decision as well, and as long as our doctors and Chris say physically he’s ready to go, we’re going to use him.”
